An inversion represents an extremely stable atmosphere because ____.
A) air becomes cooler with height
B) surface air becomes warmer than air aloft
C) inversions act as a lid on vertical air motion
D) inversions allow air pollutants to escape freely from surface air

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Inversions act as a lid on vertical air motion, trapping pollutants and preventing them from dispersing. This means that pollutants can build up to unhealthy levels in the lower atmosphere, making inversion events a concern for public health. Inversions occur when a layer of warm air sits over a layer of cool air, preventing the cool air from rising and mixing with the warm air. This can occur in a variety of weather conditions, but is most common on clear, calm, and cool nights when the ground cools rapidly, and the air just above it remains warmer. As a result, inversions represent an extremely stable atmosphere that is not conducive to mixing or vertical air movement.

An Inversion Represents an Extremely Stable Atmosphere Because ____